SACPC Weekly Updates for Nov. 4 - 11, 2025
Sunday, November 9, 2025
Stewardship Sunday
This Sunday
"On Our Journey: There is friendship and strength."
Rev. Katherine B. Harrington
On this Stewardship Sunday, Katie will be preaching "On Our Journey: there is friendship and strength" from Proverbs 3:1-10 and Mark 2:1-12. During worship, we will have the opportunity to dedicate our pledges to the annual operating campaign.
It's also 5-Cents A Meal Sunday. Bring your offerings to the collection bins at the front during the first hymn.
It's also 5-Cents A Meal Sunday. Bring your offerings to the collection bins at the front during the first hymn.
Previous Contemporary Worship
Previous Traditional Worship
Advent @ SACPC
Daring to Believe
Advent with the Prophet Isaiah
Despite living in a time of war and crisis, Isaiah believed in a world in where hope, peace, joy, and love held sway; a world where predator and prey were friends and the desert brought forth gardens; where highways were safe and justice and mercy flowed from those in power. He did not know he was dreaming of the gifts of Christ. He could not have known. But he knew that God’s story was not over; that it will not be over until all people see the great light of God’s salvation dawning into our world. This Advent, we will take a daring journey together as we challenge ourselves to believe in the power of God's salvation to change our desolate world.
Christmas Eve @ SACPC
Christmas Eve Services
Wednesday, December 24
3:00 pm | 5:00 pm | 7:00 pm
Brown Hall
Wednesday, December 24
3:00 pm | 5:00 pm | 7:00 pm
Brown Hall
This year, all Christmas Eve worship services will be in Brown Hall while our Sanctuary undergoes much needed renovations. Each service will feature traditional music of the season, candlelight and communion. A nursery will be provided during our 3:00 pm & 5:00 pm services.
Advent Pancake Dinner & Craft Night
Advent Pancake Dinner & Craft Night
NOV 23 | 5:00 pm
Brown Hall
NOV 23 | 5:00 pm
Brown Hall
Kick-off the season of Advent with our annual Pancake Dinner & Craft Night. There will be crafts and Advent wreath making for families of all ages to make and take home to deepen your faith journeys through the holidays. This is a fun time for the whole family!
Advent Music Sunday
Advent Music Sunday
DEC 14 | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Brown Hall
DEC 14 | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Brown Hall
Experience the beauty of Advent through meaningful music, powerful readings, and a spirit of joyful anticipation as we prepare our hearts for Christmas. This year's theme is “Celebrating the coming of Christ — the Light of the World — through Scripture, reflection, and song.”
The 9:00 a.m. service will feature our Contemporary Worship musicians along with the children of the church. The 11:00 am service will feature the Adult Choir and instrumental soloists.
The 9:00 a.m. service will feature our Contemporary Worship musicians along with the children of the church. The 11:00 am service will feature the Adult Choir and instrumental soloists.
Advent Greenery Donations Due DEC 14
Poinsettias and other greenery will add beauty to our Brown Hall worship space this Advent season. You have the opportunity to contribute to the cost of the decorations in memory or in honor of a special person. Any donation amount is greatly appreciated and those interested may use the white ‘Special Flowers’ envelopes located throughout the church, through our website, or contact Susan Dykes in the church office at 762-9693 ext. 207.
The due date for donations is Sunday, December 14th.
The due date for donations is Sunday, December 14th.
Winter's Eve Service
Winter's Eve Service
DEC 18 | 7:00 pm
Choir Rm
DEC 18 | 7:00 pm
Choir Rm
Between the joy and gratitude of Christmas and Thanksgiving, a space of darkness lingers as nights get longer. Join us for a service that acknowledges the dark and light aspects of our lives through meditation, reflection, and renewal during this Advent season.
Living Nativity
Living Nativity
DEC 20 |6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
15 St. Lawn
DEC 20 |6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
15 St. Lawn
We are changing the date of annual Living Nativity. Our youth ministry will present their annual Living Nativity on Saturday, December 20 before the Music on Market concert. Both events are free and open to the public.
Music on Market | Wilmington Voices
Wilmington Voices "Songs of the Season"
DEC 20 | 7:30 pm
Brown Hall
DEC 20 | 7:30 pm
Brown Hall
Music on Market is thrilled to welcome back Wilmington Voices to our concert series for an evening of choral music celebrating the season! The spirit of the holidays comes alive through the magic of choral music. This captivating concert celebrates the warmth, joy, and beauty of the holiday season, inviting audiences of all ages to gather and share in the festive cheer. Experience the power of live performance as Wilmington Voices takes you on a journey through beloved holiday classics.
Committed to fostering community and connection, Wilmington Voices brings together diverse groups across New Hanover County and beyond. Join us for a delightful concert filled with melodies that uplift the spirit and showcase the incredible talent of these dedicated musicians.
Committed to fostering community and connection, Wilmington Voices brings together diverse groups across New Hanover County and beyond. Join us for a delightful concert filled with melodies that uplift the spirit and showcase the incredible talent of these dedicated musicians.
Advent Daily Devotionals
Each year we purchase digital copies of the Presbyterian Outlook advent devotional for our congregation. This year's devotional is titled “Draw Near: Lighting the Advent Faith with Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.” Here's an excerpt of the devotional series:
Each day of Advent, this devotional offers a gentle invitation to draw near — to Scripture, to stillness, and to the heart of God. Following the traditional Advent themes, you'll light the way week by week with hope, peace, joy and love, preparing not just for Christmas, but for Christ’s presence among us.
Alongside daily reflections, this journey is enriched by artwork from children — tender, honest interpretations of sacred texts that remind us what it means to receive the kingdom like a child. Their drawings offer not just illustration, but illumination —echoing the wonder and welcome of the season.
Click the button below to download a copy.
Each day of Advent, this devotional offers a gentle invitation to draw near — to Scripture, to stillness, and to the heart of God. Following the traditional Advent themes, you'll light the way week by week with hope, peace, joy and love, preparing not just for Christmas, but for Christ’s presence among us.
Alongside daily reflections, this journey is enriched by artwork from children — tender, honest interpretations of sacred texts that remind us what it means to receive the kingdom like a child. Their drawings offer not just illustration, but illumination —echoing the wonder and welcome of the season.
Click the button below to download a copy.
Announcements
Greenery Needed for Advent Craft Night
by Ann Danchak
The Fellowship Team is in need of fresh greenery cuttings to help make advent wreaths during our annual craft night. Bring your clippings to church on Sunday, November 23. See Ann Danchak for details.
Dive Deep Into God's Word
by Lynn Warner
Last Sunday in our Dive Deep Into God's Word Bible class we explored what it was like for the early Christians called the "People of the Way." They had to meet in secret for fear of being arrested. They didn't have Bibles - printing presses weren't around yet, and it was dangerous for them to meet.
We tried to imagine what this would have been like by acting out the situation. The Youth class helped us by being Roman soldiers asking us where we were going. We casually drew with our foot half of a fish - if the person stopping us drew the other half we knew they were safe and would let us continue on our way. The sign of the fish, ICTHUS, letters of the Greek alphabet standing for Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior was an early symbol that helped the Christians as they met in secret.
We talked about how thankful we are that they continued to spread the Good News!
We tried to imagine what this would have been like by acting out the situation. The Youth class helped us by being Roman soldiers asking us where we were going. We casually drew with our foot half of a fish - if the person stopping us drew the other half we knew they were safe and would let us continue on our way. The sign of the fish, ICTHUS, letters of the Greek alphabet standing for Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior was an early symbol that helped the Christians as they met in secret.
We talked about how thankful we are that they continued to spread the Good News!
M&M (Music & More) Children Pack Mercy Pouches
by Lynn Warner
In the "More" portion of M&M we are talking about being Peacemakers and one way we can show this is by caring for others. We had a small but mighty group last week who really took seriously talking about the problem of homelessness and enthusiastially putting together Mercy Pouches for those in need. They were all excited to take one with them to pass out to people they see on the side of the road!
Come Sing with Us!
Join the Choir for “The Living Last Supper” — singing selections from Handel’s Messiah
by Cindy Litzinger
Have you ever wanted to sing Handel’s Messiah but didn’t know where to start? Here’s your chance! This February, SACPC will present “The Living Last Supper,” a moving blend of music and drama that brings to life the story of Jesus’ final meal with His disciples. The choir will perform selections from Messiah as part of this powerful worship experience — and we’d love for YOU to join us!
Rehearsal Schedule (in the Choir Room):
Jan 7 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 14 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 21 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 28 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Feb 4 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Feb 11 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Tech Week in Brown Hall:
Feb 17–19 (times TBD)
Feb 20 – Dress Rehearsal
Feb 21 – Performance | 7:30 pm
Feb 22 – Performance | 3:00 pm
FAQs:
Do I need to attend every rehearsal?
No — come when you can! We’d love to see you at as many as possible.
Do I need to read music?
Not at all! All are welcome — enthusiasm counts more than experience.
Can I invite a friend?
Absolutely! The more voices, the better.
Add your voice to this inspiring musical journey and help us share the story of Christ through the timeless beauty of Handel’s Messiah.
Rehearsal Schedule (in the Choir Room):
Jan 7 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 14 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 21 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Jan 28 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Feb 4 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Feb 11 – 7:00–8:00 pm
Tech Week in Brown Hall:
Feb 17–19 (times TBD)
Feb 20 – Dress Rehearsal
Feb 21 – Performance | 7:30 pm
Feb 22 – Performance | 3:00 pm
FAQs:
Do I need to attend every rehearsal?
No — come when you can! We’d love to see you at as many as possible.
Do I need to read music?
Not at all! All are welcome — enthusiasm counts more than experience.
Can I invite a friend?
Absolutely! The more voices, the better.
Add your voice to this inspiring musical journey and help us share the story of Christ through the timeless beauty of Handel’s Messiah.
Taking Care of Our Coast with NC Coastal Federation
by Shelley Hobson
At POPS on Wednesday night, SACPC's Earth Care Team presented a program with geologist and NC Coastal Federation Program Director Kerri Allen. The talk was designed to educate us about caring for and protection of our beautiful coast and its vital wetlands.
The NC Coastal Federation is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring North Carolina's coast through a combination of habitat restoration, environmental education, and advocacy for strong environmental policies. Their work includes improving water quality, restoring salt marshes and oyster reefs, reducing marine debris like lost fishing gear, and developing living shorelines to combat erosion and storm damage.
To find out more about how you can help the NC Coastal Federation protect our coast, here are some resources and ways to get involved:
The NC Coastal Federation is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring North Carolina's coast through a combination of habitat restoration, environmental education, and advocacy for strong environmental policies. Their work includes improving water quality, restoring salt marshes and oyster reefs, reducing marine debris like lost fishing gear, and developing living shorelines to combat erosion and storm damage.
To find out more about how you can help the NC Coastal Federation protect our coast, here are some resources and ways to get involved:
Sign up for Coastal Review Online daily news briefs:
Sign up for NC Coastal Federation's newsletter:
Sign up to receive volunteer notification:
Become a member:
Update from Olivia Phelps
by Jen Phelps
Our own Olivia Phelps has been serving as a PC(USA) Young Adult Volunteer since August. She is living in Aqua Prieta, Mexico and serving at the Borderlands of Arizona. You can follow her group on Instagram @borderlandsyav and Olivia would LOVE to hear from you!
Olivia Phelps
826 E. 11th Street
Douglas, AZ 85607
826 E. 11th Street
Douglas, AZ 85607
Leftover Halloween Candy?!?
by Jen Phelps
Our Youth group would LOVE your donations of leftover Halloween Candy!
Too much candy at your house on November 1st??? We are not picky and would be so grateful! Contact Jen Phelps for details.
Stewardship Sunday is THIS Week!
by John Bohbrink
Stewardship Sunday is November 9, 2025. Please bring your pledge card on that Sunday to turn in during worship. You can also complete your pledge cards online using the link below.
Sheltering the Children of God
by Sue McCaffray
On Oct. 8, Rev. Jerry Bron and Rev. Steve Hein spoke to our POPS group about what it means to follow Great End of the Church # 2: the shelter, nurture, and spiritual fellowship of the children of God. They showed us the need to be intentional in preparing to care for others in our congregation in time of need, for strangers who come through our doors, and for our staff and leaders. A spirited discussion was enjoyed by all!
We are collecting toothpaste!
by Jen Phelps
Every Christmas - our youth group supports the Fommunity Resource Council in providing Christmas gifts to the men at our local prison.
We are collecting full size, adult toothpastes (400 of them, to be exact) and would love your help!
Bring toothpastes to any youth at any time, or to the lower level youth space on Sunday mornings or Wednesday nights through November 19th. THANK YOOOOOOUUUUU!
We are collecting full size, adult toothpastes (400 of them, to be exact) and would love your help!
Bring toothpastes to any youth at any time, or to the lower level youth space on Sunday mornings or Wednesday nights through November 19th. THANK YOOOOOOUUUUU!
Holy Happenings @ SACPC
Navigating the Caregiving Landscape for Older Adults
with Holly Pilson of the Cape Fear Council on Aging
Wetlands Matter
NOV 5 | 6:30 pm
Kardia Rm 224
NOV 5 | 6:30 pm
Kardia Rm 224
Join us for a VERY informative evening of news you can use: how to navigate caregiving needs that may arise for ourselves or our loved ones through the aging process. Our very own Holly Pilson of the Cape Fear Council on Aging will be with us at POPS on Wed., Nov. 5 in the Kardia Room, 224.
Music on Market: Gentlemen's Quartet
Gentlemen's Quartet
NOV 9 | 3:00 pm
Brown Hall
NOV 9 | 3:00 pm
Brown Hall
Experience an afternoon of musical brilliance with the Gentlemen’s Quartet (GQ), as they present a modern, elegant take on timeless classics and popular hits, from Beethoven to John Legend. Their unique arrangements fuse multiple genres together in a perfect symphony of sophistication, virtuosity and humor. With impressive musical credits that include Broadway, The West End, and performances with artists such as Vanessa WIlliams, Dee Snyder, Tony Bennett, The Manhattan Transfer, Audra McDonald, James Taylor, etc., these versatile musicians promise an unforgettable afternoon of entertainment. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind concert!
Finding Resilience, Joy, and Our Identity in Jesus Christ
by Katherine Brandi
Presbyterian Women's Bible Study
NOV 11, 12 & 13 | 10:00 am
Dining Rm
NOV 11, 12 & 13 | 10:00 am
Dining Rm
November’s Presbyterian Women’s Bible study will be led by Katherine Brandi. The theme is "Jesus Is Tested." Christ’s wilderness experience shows us that when our lives are dangerous and frightening, we are not alone. Main scripture passage is from Luke 4:1-13, other brief references from old and new testament.
Chillin with the Church(folks)
Chillin with Church(folks)
NOV 16 | 4:00 pm
Flying Machine Brewing
NOV 16 | 4:00 pm
Flying Machine Brewing
Looking for time to connect with your fellow church folks, of all ages, outside of the walls of SACPC? Please drop in and join us at Flying Machine Brewing (3130 Randall Parkway) from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 16th.
POPS Program: Game Night
Game Night
NOV 19 | 6:30 pm
Brown Hall
NOV 19 | 6:30 pm
Brown Hall
For our last POPS program of 2025 - our YOUTH will be hosting a game night in Brown Hall.
Stick around after dinner and play with your church family - there will be something for everyone!
Music | Contact Cindy Litzinger
Ringing, Laughing and Mummy-Making!
Adult Handbells Enjoy a Night of Fun and Fellowship
The SACPC Adult Handbell Choir traded handbells for laughter recently at a special evening of games, food, and friendship! Instead of ringing chords, we were busy wrapping each other up — literally — during a “Dress the Mummy” contest. Teams competed to see who could create the best mummy using rolls (and rolls!) of toilet paper, and the results were as entertaining as they were creative.
The night was a perfect reminder that our music ministry is as much about community and joy as it is about making beautiful music together. We’re so grateful for the spirit and fellowship of this wonderful group. Whether we’re ringing bells or rolling up mummies, there’s always room for fun, faith, and friendship in the bell choir!
The night was a perfect reminder that our music ministry is as much about community and joy as it is about making beautiful music together. We’re so grateful for the spirit and fellowship of this wonderful group. Whether we’re ringing bells or rolling up mummies, there’s always room for fun, faith, and friendship in the bell choir!
Go & Serve | Contact Gary Smith
November Donation Drive
Angel Tree
The Go and Serve team will be collecting donations for the Salvation Army Angel Tree during the month of November. This is our opportunity to provide a joyful Christmas for children who otherwise would go without. The tree with "Angels" will be in the Gathering Area beginning November 9. Please choose one or more "Angels," purchase some or all of the items on the list, and return them unwrapped with the child's tag attached to the gathering area before November 30.
Children | Contact Lynn Warner
Children's Events
Youth | Contact Jen Phelps
November DGroups
D-Groups
NOV 5 & 19 | 6:30 pm
The Pool
NOV 5 & 19 | 6:30 pm
The Pool
Middle and high school students gather for fellowship, Bible study and our small group ministry every other Wednesday night.
**Note our new location back in the church beginning this fall.**
Lower Level opens at 6:30 pm. Programming begins at 7:00 pm. See Jen Phelps for more details.
**Note our new location back in the church beginning this fall.**
Lower Level opens at 6:30 pm. Programming begins at 7:00 pm. See Jen Phelps for more details.
Friendsgiving
Friendsgiving
NOV 23 | 6:30 pm
Lower Level
NOV 23 | 6:30 pm
Lower Level
Middle & High School students are welcome.
Youth will gather in the lower level following the Advent Pancake event for fellowship and a celebration of friendship and ALL THE THANKSGIVING SIDES!
Youth will gather in the lower level following the Advent Pancake event for fellowship and a celebration of friendship and ALL THE THANKSGIVING SIDES!
Youth Events
GIVING | Contact Susan Dykes
September Financial Highlight
Thank you for contributing to the work and love of Jesus through St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church. Your gifts enable us to stay Faithfully Present in Our Community by providing beneficial programs and spiritual events that lift up, motivate, and provide joy!
Financial updates will be provided each month. If you have any questions, please contact Susan Dykes, Financial Administrator, 910-762-9693x207, sdykes@sacpc.org; or our Church Treasurer, Ed Hobson, treasurer@sacpc.org.
CareLine Updates as of November 4, 2025
Click here to access the complete CareLine.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:4-6
Philippians 4:4-6
We Grieve For:
Stephanie Williams’ mother, Cynthia, who passed away 11-3-25 at hospice.
We Celebrate:
Grandparents Laura and Tex Peterson welcome a grandson, Maddox Andrew Peterson, born on 10/27/25.
We Pray For:
Kent Anderson who fell from a high ladder and has a badly fractured heel bone. Surgery was last week and he remains non weight bearing with orders to keep the leg elevated.
Joyce Whittaker who had a recent hospitalization and who suffers from glaucoma.
Kristen Roeder-LoMonaco who received a recent diagnosis of recurring cancer.
Joyce Whittaker who had a recent hospitalization and who suffers from glaucoma.
Kristen Roeder-LoMonaco who received a recent diagnosis of recurring cancer.
Immediate News:
We pray for those who face food insecurity and for the ability of food banks to help meet their needs.
We pray for newly elected local and state officials and for their leadership skills .
We pray for newly elected local and state officials and for their leadership skills .
Service Personnel:
Billy Purdom (USS Stout DDG ), Smith Beacham (Poland/Germany), Jack Looney (USS Carl Vinson, San Diego, CA) , Samuel Makepeace (Fort Benning, Georgia), Brennan Litzinger (Fort Bliss, Texas), Mikayla Reifert (Tinker AForce base in Oklahoma), Bradley Garrett (Coast Guard, Elizabeth City)
Prayer requests: Click here to tell us about your need.
Hospitalizations: Please click here to email Katie Harrington or call the church office at 910.762.9693 to leave a message.
Prayer requests: Click here to tell us about your need.
Hospitalizations: Please click here to email Katie Harrington or call the church office at 910.762.9693 to leave a message.
Birthday Celebrations | Nov. 4 - 11, 2025
November 4: Samuel Mayes
November 5: Bill Terrell
November 6: Morgan Holder, Craig Stewart
November 7: Robbie Benson, Norwood Crawford, Jeff Flynn, Warren McMurry
November 9: Bob Fankboner
November 10: Ford Butner
November 11: Carol Jennings, Scott Miller
November 5: Bill Terrell
November 6: Morgan Holder, Craig Stewart
November 7: Robbie Benson, Norwood Crawford, Jeff Flynn, Warren McMurry
November 9: Bob Fankboner
November 10: Ford Butner
November 11: Carol Jennings, Scott Miller
View our most recent Session Reports.
SACPC Contacts
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
For pastoral concerns:
Katie Harrington kharrington@sacpc.org
910-762-9693 x203
Parker Lucas plucas@sacpc.org
910-762-9693 x202
For financial questions:
Susan Dykes sdykes@sacpc.org; x207
For newsletter, website, social media, and other communication questions:
Emily Donovan (edonovan@sacpc.org)
For the front desk:
call 910-762-9693 x201
For facility use reservations, Memorial Garden & The Block information:
Catheryn Thomas cthomas@sacpc.org; x229
Session Contacts: If you have questions, concerns or recommendations feel free to contact any session member individually or email the session at session@sacpc.org.
Office Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
For pastoral concerns:
Katie Harrington kharrington@sacpc.org
910-762-9693 x203
Parker Lucas plucas@sacpc.org
910-762-9693 x202
For financial questions:
Susan Dykes sdykes@sacpc.org; x207
For newsletter, website, social media, and other communication questions:
Emily Donovan (edonovan@sacpc.org)
For the front desk:
call 910-762-9693 x201
For facility use reservations, Memorial Garden & The Block information:
Catheryn Thomas cthomas@sacpc.org; x229
Session Contacts: If you have questions, concerns or recommendations feel free to contact any session member individually or email the session at session@sacpc.org.
Recent
SACPC Weekly Updates for Nov. 4 - 11, 2025
November 4th, 2025
SACPC Weekly Updates for Oct. 28 - Nov. 4, 2025
October 28th, 2025
SACPC Weekly Updates for Oct. 21-28, 2025
October 21st, 2025
SACPC Weekly Updates for Oct. 14-21, 2025
October 14th, 2025
SACPC Weekly Updates for Oct. 7-14, 2025
October 7th, 2025
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